Endoscopic removal of high-powered magnets from the appendiceal orifice in an asymptomatic child.

Abstract

Ingestion of multiple magnets can lead to serious complications, including foreign body appendicitis. Appendicitis usually develops when an object blocks the appendiceal orifice, though outcomes may vary from asymptomatic passage to acute inflammation. While several case reports have documented appendectomy for magnet-induced foreign body appendicitis, and one report described endoscopic removal of magnets in a patient with appendicitis, this case is the first to report successful endoscopic removal of high-powered magnets from the appendix in an asymptomatic child. This intervention potentially prevented the development of appendicitis and the need for surgery. This case highlights the importance of considering foreign body retention in the appendix when objects fail to progress beyond the right lower quadrant.